Grower Today

Author: Brian

  • Growing Acorn Squash – Tips And Tricks 

    Growing Acorn Squash – Tips And Tricks 

    Growing acorn squash is rewarding as you get to harvest a large crop of about five fruits per plant from some varieties.

    Acorn squash is a type of winter squash that is similar to pumpkins. Keep reading to learn the differences between both fruits and to know how to grow acorn squash.

    Differences Between Acorn Squash And Pumpkin

    The major differences between these two fruits are:

    • Acorn squash and pumpkins vary by the shape of the fruit, the size of the fruit, and the seeds.  Acorn squash is round in shape and has about 4-6 seeds in each fruit. Pumpkins have a different shape and have a hard shell with one seed inside.
    • When you pick acorn squash, the skin is should be tough and green, with the flesh being tender and delicious. When harvesting pumpkins, they will also have tough skin and should be fully colored with firm flesh.
    • As for the nutrition values, the acorn squash has about 115 calories per cup while the pumpkin has about 137 calories per cup.  Acorn squash also has more fiber and less fat than pumpkin. However, if you want to make the best-tasting pumpkin pie, then it’s better to buy canned pumpkin instead of acorn squash.
    • After cooking, pumpkins will have a crunchy texture while acorn squash will have a softer texture.
    • Pumpkins are larger than acorn squash. Pumpkins are large, orange-fleshed gourds that are grown as a fruit. Acorn squash is a small, yellow-fleshed gourd that is grown as a fruit.
    • Acorn squash and pumpkin can be eaten raw, though pumpkins taste better when cooked.
    Differences Between Acorn Squash And Pumpking

    Growing Acorn Squash – Step By Step Guide

    Growing acorn squash from seed is easy and fun. It’s the best way to start your own garden. Growing acorn squash from seed takes about 80-100 days and is a great learning experience.

    The seeds are inexpensive and can be planted directly into the ground without first having to be soaked. Acorn squash seeds take about six weeks to germinate, so you will have a baby acorn squash in about two months. It’s a wonderful winter squash that grows large and tastes delicious.

    Let’s see how we can grow acorn squash from seeds:

    • Step 1: Preparing seeds

    First of all, you need to get good quality seeds. The best way is to buy it from a specialized shop. If you don’t have one near you, you can try to find it online. When buying the seeds, make sure they are healthy and fresh. It’s better to get them in a shop where they keep them in cool, dry conditions.

    • Step 2: Germinate

    Place the seeds on a damp paper towel to help them germinate. However, this is not necessary if the growing medium is moist and warm. The germination period will last around 6 to 12 days.

    • Step 3: Plant

    Once germinated, plant them in a pot with a little soil. Plant the seeds in a sunny spot, but not in direct sunlight. When the seeds sprout, keep an eye on them. Make sure that they don’t dry out.

    • Step 4: Harvest

    When the squash is ready to be harvested, it should have a nice shape and size. You can start picking them when they are small, but it’s better to wait until they are big enough to eat. It will take between 10 to 12 weeks to grow the acorn squash.

    • Step 6: Ready to eat!

    Once the acorn squash is ready to eat, you can cut off the stem and peel off the skin. If you want, you can wash the squash, but it’s not necessary. It’s also possible to eat it raw. The acorn squash is an easy and healthy food to add to your diet.

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    Requirements For Growing Acorn Squash

    The following are some of the things you should know about growing acorn squash.

    • Acorn squash is winter squash. It can be grown during the summer if it is protected from freezing temperatures.
    • The ideal soil temperature for growing acorn squash is 70°F to 75°F. If you live in a colder area, you may want to grow it indoors.
    • You should plant your squash seeds no more than one inch deep and at least two inches apart in full sun.  The direct sun makes them sweeter.
    • Water your squash plants thoroughly when they are small. Don’t let your squash sit in water; allow it to dry out before watering again.
    • Fertilize your squash plants with a slow-release fertilizer every two weeks until the plants start producing fruit.

    Take-Home – Growing Acorn Squash

    Growing acorn squash is easy and fast and you can expect a big harvest from a few plants. As long as you provide them with the right growing conditions, acorn squash will be good to go.

    You can grow them in a container on a deck or patio. You can also plant them in the garden. However, be sure to provide a trellis so that they don’t fall over. When growing squash in a container, add a few small stones to help the roots establish themselves.

    FAQ’s

    What does acorn squash look like when growing?

    Acorn squash is a round, oblong, or pear-shaped fruit with green skin and tan flesh. It grows in a bunch of 5 to 8 fruits on a long stem called a “pistil.” The stem is about 2 feet long.

    What is the growing season for acorn squash?

    The growing season for acorn squash is between March and November.

    How long is the growing cycle of acorn squash?

    According to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) publication, “Agricultural Statistics,” from the USDA’s Crop Production and Agronomy Statistics, Acorn Squash (Cucurbita maxima) has a “days to harvest” of 155. This is the number of days from seeding to harvesting.

    Do acorn squash need a trellis?

    Yes. It is best to grow these on a trellis because the vine can become very long and difficult to manage. It is possible to grow them on a wall but they are prone to slugs and snails which can cause damage.

  • Simple Steps On How To Cut Broccoli Like a Pro

    Simple Steps On How To Cut Broccoli Like a Pro

    Let’s learn how to cut broccoli the right way to avoid wasting too much good stuff from these precious vegetables.

    Broccoli is a member of the Brassicaceae family, also known as the mustard family or cabbage family, and is related to cauliflower, kale, collard greens, kohlrabi, and bok choy.  If you are looking to add more greens to your diet, you should try broccoli. It’s a very nutritious vegetable and full of vitamins A, C, K, and Folic Acid.

    The leaves of broccoli can be eaten raw as a salad or added to stir-fries. They also make a great addition to soups, especially when combined with other veggies like carrots.

    If you want to try adding broccoli to your diet, start with a small amount. Start with a few cups of chopped broccoli and see how it goes. You may find that you enjoy it and can eat it regularly.

    Broccoli is a delicious and nutritious vegetable that needs to be prepared with care. It can be very hard to cut or chop if you do not know the correct method. The most important thing is that we do not waste anything.

    Why is it Important To Cut Broccoli Properly?

    It’s easy to eat raw broccoli, but you can get a lot of vitamins and nutrients from it if you cook it. However, broccoli is one of the vegetables that are very easy to overcook.

    Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable. It belongs to the family Brassicaceae, which also includes kale, cabbage, and cauliflower. We love broccoli. In fact, we love it so much that we can eat it raw with no problem at all.  There are times, though, when we want to make a salad out of our broccoli and we find it hard to decide what to do with it once we’ve prepared it.

    Why Is It Important To Cut Broccoli Properly

    Is it better to chop it up and put it in a salad bowl? Or is it better to leave it whole and put it on a plate? Cooking broccoli is an easy way to get a lot of nutrients from this vegetable.

    The best thing to do with raw broccoli is to eat it raw in salads or by itself. But for cooking, there are several ways you can go about it.

    You can either cut the broccoli into small pieces and cook them separately or you can chop the broccoli into smaller pieces and cook the broccoli as one piece. The choice is yours.

    Broccoli is easy to overcook. That’s why we usually choose to cut the broccoli into smaller pieces before cooking it.

    How To Cut Broccoli Like a Pro

    Step #1: Wash off your broccoli plant.

    Step #2: Take a sharp chef’s knife and slice off the broccoli floret right where it meets the larger stalk. If you cut off the florets right where they each attach, you will end up with stubby-looking florets. 

    Step #3: Cut the large broccoli florets in half.

    Step #4: Start by cutting the base of the stem of any large floret in half, pulling it apart using your fingers. Try to cut them in similar sizes making them perfect and beautiful even when cooked.

    Step #5: Cut the stalks if you wish to, slicing them into 1/4-inch-sized pieces.

    Step #6: The stalks are edible too, so you don’t have to throw them away.  Slice them up and use them as you would the florets.

    And that is how to cut broccoli florets ready for cooking.

    Please note:  You can cut your broccoli into tiny bits if you would like to use them for broccoli soup, or if you like to just have them in smaller bits.

    How To Cut Broccoli From Your Garden

    Once your broccoli heads are ready for harvest, you can go ahead and cut them off the plants.  But how exactly do you do that? Well, it’s actually quite easy to cut broccoli from your garden.

    What you will need to cut broccoli (and store it)

    • A sharp knife or scissors
    • A container or basket to carry your broccoli home

    Step #1: Cut the broccoli off by slicing it at the stem. You’ll notice that there are leaves attached to the bottom of the stem. Leave 2-3 inches of the main stem on the broccoli plant when you harvest it. Cut with sharp scissors or a knife to avoid damaging the stem of the plant.

    Step #2: Place the cut broccoli in a large bowl or basket for easier storage and transportation.

    Step #3: Store your broccoli in the fridge for up to two days.

    Do not wash your broccoli before storage as it attracts mold due to high levels of moisture trapped inside it. This mold leads to rotting even when refrigerated.

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    Summary Of How To Cut Broccoli

    Cutting vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage, is a skill that all cooks need to master. This skill comes in handy when you want to cook broccoli or cabbage in a way that the vegetable retains its bright green color and fresh flavor.

    Broccoli and cabbage have a tendency to turn brown when cooked. The browning of broccoli and cabbage is caused by the Maillard reaction, which occurs when amino acids are heated with sugars.  To avoid this, ensure that you cook them lightly so you don’t destroy the vitamins in these foods.

    FAQ

    How to cut broccoli florets?

    In a nutshell, you need to cut the stems first. Then cut the florets in half lengthwise, and then cut each half into smaller pieces.

    How to cut broccoli from plants?

    Cut your broccoli using a sharp knife that will cut the broccoli head from the stem at the level where the head joins the stem.

    How to cut broccoli from the garden?

    Cutting broccoli from the garden is simple. Check to see that broccoli is ready for harvesting before you cut it off. Once you ensure it’s ready, cut the broccoli head off from its stem, leaving two to three inches of the stem, using a sharp knife or scissors.

    How to clean and cut broccoli?

    Broccoli should be washed with water before cutting. It is also recommended to use a sharp knife when cutting so you get a clean cut.

  • A Guide On Planting Carrot Seeds – Important Soil Requirements

    A Guide On Planting Carrot Seeds – Important Soil Requirements

    Planting carrot seeds requires tons of patience as they take a long time to germinate which could make one think they died.

    Carrots are biennial plants that need at least two seasons to produce any vegetable. Carrots are usually planted after the last frost date of spring. They should be sown in well-prepared seedbeds or holes.

    Planting Carrot Seeds

    Sowing Method

    Carrot seeds can be planted in either direct or indirect planting methods.  Direct planting means that the seeds are planted directly into the soil, without a growing medium.  Indirect planting means that the seeds are first grown in a growing medium such as vermiculite or peat moss, then planted into the soil.

    If carrots are to be planted in direct soil, it is best to sow in a shallow container and transplant them into the soil later. Sow carrot seeds in rows, 10” apart and 2-3″ deep.  The seedlings will grow about 3-4 inches tall before they are transplanted. 

    If starting seeds indoors, use a germination tray to cover the seeds. The seeds should be sown after the last frost date of spring, which is usually in mid-May.  Thin your seedlings to at least 3-4 inches apart to allow air to circulate.

    Germination

    Carrots seeds take a long time to germinate, 14-21 days. During the germination time, the soil should be kept moist.

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    Thin The Seedlings Once They Germinate

    It is advisable to thin the seedlings to about 4-6 inches apart.  The seedlings need to be thinned every two weeks until the plants have reached a length of 8-10”, after which time it is not necessary to thin anymore. A few weeks before planting, thin the seedlings so that only the strongest plants remain.

    Keep The Plants Moist

    Irrigate with water whenever the soil dries out.  Carrot is a cool-season crop and requires cool weather for optimum production.

    The plants can be harvested from late fall through early spring. Carrots are very popular vegetables and there are many different varieties available.

    Read more about Low Nitrogen Fertilizer

    Seedling Care

    Seeds are best planted in a sunny location with well-drained soil.  The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings have emerged from the ground.  

    Once the seedlings emerge, they should be watered every day until they are large enough to be transplanted into their permanent home.  The plants should be transplanted into a well-drained, but not too dry, soil as soon as possible after they reach two inches in height.

    Carrots should receive at least one inch of water a week during the growing season. When grown in dry soil, carrots may become misshapen, or develop a bitter taste.

    Carrot Seedling Care

    Carrot Varieties

    Some of the popular varieties commonly grown are:

    • Cortland – This variety has long taproots and high yield potential.
    • Early Burpee – Early maturing and high yielding variety.
    • Excel – This variety is hardy and productive and is best grown in cooler climates.
    • Giant Winter – The largest carrot variety available.

    Requirements For Planting Carrot Seeds

    Carrots need to have a frost-free period of at least six weeks to produce good-quality roots.

    • Soil Temperature.  Soil should be kept warm enough so that the soil is moist when the seeds are planted, and that the temperature does not drop below freezing. Ideal soil temperatures for germination are between 60 to 70 degrees, with little or no germination happening below 40 degrees.
    • Soil Moisture. The soil should be kept moist but not soggy.  Watering can be done by overhead sprinkler or by hand.
    • Sunlight.  Carrot seeds need light to germinate and to help them grow.
    • Spacing.  Carrots seedlings need 6-8 inches of space to grow and should be thinned out once they are large enough to handle.
    • Soil Fertility.   When planting carrots, it is important to provide a good balance of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.  Carrots need an abundance of nitrogen to produce a strong root system and healthy plants.  Phosphorus and potassium are also important for healthy growth.
    Requirements For Planting Carrot Seeds

    Summary For Planting Carrot Seeds

    Planting carrot seeds requires enough preparation before putting those seeds on the soil or germinating trays. You must also provide them with proper nutrients to ensure they grow healthy and strong.

    FAQ’s

    How to germinate carrot seeds before planting?

    Carrot seeds are the most popular seed type, but they are often difficult to start. It is not necessary to soak your seeds for a long time.

    What month do you plant carrot seeds?

    Carrot seeds can be planted from late March to early April. When the temperature reaches 10°C (50°F) the soil should be moist, and then you need to water the seeds.

    Should I soak carrot seeds before planting?

    Seeds should be soaked in water for a few hours to soften and make them easier to handle. If you soak the seeds for too long they will begin to rot. After soaking, drain the seeds and then place them on a clean surface to dry out. After 2-3 days the seeds should be ready to plant.

    How long does it take to grow carrots from seed?

    Carrots can be grown from seed in about two months, though it is not necessary to start seeds indoors. The time from planting seeds to eating fresh-picked carrots will vary depending on the season and the variety of carrots.

  • A Guide on Saving and Growing Persian Cucumber Seeds

    A Guide on Saving and Growing Persian Cucumber Seeds

    Persian cucumber seeds are easily available in garden centers and online stores making them accessible to gardeners across America.

    Persian cucumbers are classified as a single crop, also known as Cucumis melo var. flexuosus, belonging to the family of Cucurbitaceae. They are native to India but nowadays they are cultivated in many regions worldwide including Europe and North America. Persian cucumbers are also known as Beit Alpha, Middle Eastern cucumber, or Lebanese cucumbers.

    The fruit length is between five to six inches. The fruits are cylindrically shaped with wrinkled skin covering firm flesh which can be white or green colored.

    The plant growth habit is a bush type that has good resistance to pests, diseases, and drought conditions. One of the benefits of the Persian cucumber is that it requires very little space for growth since the plant size is small compared to others.

    Growing Persian Cucumber Seeds

    Growing Persian cucumber seeds is not difficult but their germination time is considered long. Persian cucumber planting requirements are different compared to other vegetable crops. These requirements include:

    Planting depth

    The seeding depth of Persian cucumbers is not recommended to be less than 1/2″ or more than 3/4″.

    Seeding rate

    The seeding rate for Persian cucumber seeds should be around four to eight lbs per acre depending on soil fertility.

    Sowing time

    The best time to sow Persian cucumber seeds is early spring after the frost danger period is over. These cucumbers are best suited to warmer areas with long summers. When sowing the soil temperature should be between 65 F to 70F for the best germination rate.

    Seed spacing

    Persian cucumbers are planted in rows with 60 cm between each row and from plant to plant should be at least 30 cm.

    Health Benefits Of Persian Cucumber Seeds

    Persian cucumbers are considered healthy, here are several health benefits they provide:

    • Good Source of Antioxidants. Persian cucumbers are a good source of antioxidants which is necessary to keep the intracellular environment healthy and free from damage by free radicals.
    • Rich in Vitamin C. Persian cucumbers is a significant source of Vitamin C which helps strengthen our immune system, improving skin health and reducing the risk for urinary tract infections.
    • Rich in Dietary Fiber. Persian cucumber seeds contain a high amount of dietary fiber that is beneficial for the digestion system by regulating bowel movements and helping control blood sugar levels.
    • Good for Skin. Persian cucumber seeds have been shown as a powerful weapon against acne, eczema, psoriasis, and sun damage due to their antibacterial properties.
    • Anti-inflammatory Properties. According to a recent Persian cucumber study, these cucumbers have been found to carry a powerful anti-inflammatory food that can fight against arthritis and heart disease by preventing the development of inflammatory compounds in the body.
    • Aids Weight Loss. Persian cucumbers are very low in calories making them ideal for weight loss diets. Many studies have shown that Persian cucumber seeds help to improve blood sugar levels in diabetic patients.

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    How To Save Persian Cucumber Seeds?

    When growing Persian cucumbers, you can save your own seeds from overgrown fruits. The best time to collect Persian cucumber seeds is when the fruits become yellowish or after they fall on the ground.

    The Persian seeds should be allowed to dry at room temperature before storing them in a cool dark place. Both dried and fresh Persian cucumber seeds can be stored for a long time without losing their germinating ability.

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    Here are the steps to follow when saving Persian cucumber seeds:

    • Step 1: Pick fruits when they are overgrown or have fallen on the ground.
    • Step 2: Cut them open to reveal the seeds inside.
    • Step 3: Scoop out the seeds and discard the fleshy part of the cucumber.
    • Step 4: Spread the seeds in a dry place for several days until they are fully dried.
    • Step 5: Store them in an air-tight container and place them in a cool dark room or cupboard.

    Check Out The Differences Between Greensand Vs Azomite

    How To Grow Persian Cucumbers From Home Seeds

    Once you have saved your Persian cucumber seeds, it’s time to grow them again in the next season. Here are a few things to consider when growing Persian cucumbers from home seeds.

    Ensure your soil is rich. When growing Persian cucumbers, you need to start with farm soil that is rich enough with organic matter, liming materials, and well-drained. The pH level should be between 6.5 to 7.5 which can be achieved by adding limestone on-farm soil before planting your home seeds.

    Water them regularly. Persian cucumbers require a lot of water to grow healthy and produce a high yield. They should be watered regularly during the growing season every day until fruits are harvested to keep the soil moist.

    Protect them from plant enemies. Persian cucurbit seeds are vulnerable to fungal infections such as Downy mildew, powdery mildew, and bacterial wilt.

    It’s important to take preventive measures against these fungi during the growing periods by using disease-free planting material. In addition, Persian cucumber seeds can be treated with fungicides for better results.

    How To Grow Persian Cucumbers From Home Seeds

    Conclusion

    Persian cucumber seeds as described in this article are a little difficult to germinate and therefore require the best growing conditions.

    The best growing conditions for this plant include rich soil that is well-drained, enough water, protection from plant enemies, and good air circulation.

    If you choose to save your own seeds, remember to dry them completely and store them in a cool dark space. You can store your seeds long enough but you need to check them from time to time for any fungal infections that may lead to rot.

    You can incorporate these scrumptious vegetables in several recipes like salads, dips, stews, and curries.

    FAQ’s

    What variety are Persian cucumbers?

    The most common variety of Persian cucumbers is burpless. There are several other varieties including lemon, San Diego market, long green etc. The largest variety is the burpless cucumber which has a mild, sweet flavor.

    Are Persian cucumbers easy to grow?

    When compared to other cucumber types, Persian cucumbers are a little trickier to grow. They prefer warmer climates and should be planted after the soil temperature has reached at least 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Persian cucumbers require a moderate amount of water during the growing season so they may not survive in locations where summer rainfall is very scarce.

    How can I save Persian cucumber seeds?

    If you wish to save Persian cucumber seeds, separate the seeds from Persian cucumber flesh after harvesting them. Rinse the cucumber pulp in water to remove any dirt or debris left behind.

    Spread the Persian cucumber seeds out on a paper towel to dry for about two weeks before storing them in an airtight container placed in a cool dark room or cupboard. Persian cucumber seeds can be stored for many years without losing germination ability if properly dried and stored for future use.

    Can I grow Persian cucumber from home seeds?

    When growing Persian cucumbers from home seeds, the process is very simple and straightforward. The Persian cucumber plant needs full sun exposure in order to produce fruits. They are known as warm-season crops that prefer soil temperature of at least 65 F or higher for the best germination rate.

    Sowing Persian cucumber seeds directly into garden beds or containers should give you the same great results since both methods work well if you provide proper care to your plants.

  • A Complete Guide To Growing Lettuce From Seed

    A Complete Guide To Growing Lettuce From Seed

    Growing lettuce from seed is an easy and fun activity to do with your young ones and later enjoy its good harvest.

    Although growing lettuce is incredibly easy, there are some important factors to consider when growing it. Lettuce requires quite a lot of sunlight to grow properly, so if you live in low-light areas then growing lettuce may not be for you.

    Also, growing salad greens like this will require more nutrients than their head-forming counterparts (it takes up to 20 days for them to form heads). If you plan on growing your vegetables over the summer or winter, make sure that you prepare the soil beforehand!

    Step By Step Guide To Growing Lettuce From Seed Indoors

    As you will see below, how to start growing lettuce from seed is easy and fast.

    • Step 1: Germinate

    To germinate lettuce seeds, you will need a growing medium. Any sterile growing mix is suitable for growing lettuce from seed, although there are specific growing mixes available at your local garden center.

    • Step 2:  Give them some space!

    Fill the growing tray with the growing mix and level it out slightly before sowing your seeds evenly across the surface of the growing medium. It’s important to note that a single pickling cucumber plant requires 100 square feet of space!

    • Step 3: Keep an eye on them

    Cover them in a thin layer of fine compost or vermiculite and give them a good misting over with some water. Keep an eye on them throughout the first few weeks as young lettuce plants appreciate moist soil conditions – do not let their roots dry out.

    • Step 4:  Ready to transplant?

    During the growing period, ensure the growing conditions are right for your plants. You will find that your young plants will rapidly germinate and start growing. Within a few weeks, they will have developed their first set of leaves and be ready to transplant into another growing container or module tray for a longer growing cycle.

    You can choose to grow your seedlings indoors in this case. However, if you do not have enough space on your windowsill, it’s best to move them outside so long as the weather is starting to turn warm again.

    You may wish to cover your seedling with some shade netting overnight. This is a good idea until they get used to being outdoors if you’ve been growing them indoors for a while – particularly during cold winter.

    Read more about Growing Romaine Lettuce In Container

    Growing Lettuce From Seed Outdoors

    You’ll need to prepare the growing area by spading and preparing the soil with some sand beforehand – don’t forget it will require a lot of nutrients!

    Hoe the surface until it has turned to fine soil and level it with your hand or rake and transplant your growing plants. Ensure that your growing containers are at least eight inches deep so that they have enough room to develop their roots.

    Growing Lettuce From Seed Outdoors

    Once planted, water them well and wait for those tender little green shoots to appear above ground. Make sure you keep an eye on them if there’s any possibility of frost as cold weather may cause them to “bolt” (run-up like a flower) rather than grow into a mature plant.

    Once the weather starts to warm up, you will have lovely green leaves growing in no time! Harvest your lettuce when it is large enough and enjoy it with some tasty dressing or dip. I like to add nuts or dried fruit for an extra taste sensation.

    Well, that’s about it – growing lettuce from seed requires very little work and attention – excellent if you’re busy but still want something productive growing on your windowsill. Enjoy!

    Check Out How To Grow Salad Bowl Lettuce In Containers

    What Is The Right Temperature For Growing Lettuce From Seed In A Greenhouse?

    When growing your lettuce inside a greenhouse, ensure your plants have the right temperatures.

    At night, when growing lettuce from seed in a greenhouse, the temperature should be at least +5°C (41°F). If the temperature goes lower than +5°C (41°F) outdoors, then you should consider bringing your growing tray with growing plants under the shelter. During the day, temperatures in the greenhouse should be at least +18°C (64.4°F).

    Overall, the temperatures in the greenhouse should range between 20-30°C (68-86°F). However, growing lettuce from seed can withstand higher temperatures up to 35°C (95°F).

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    What Type Of Fertilizer Does Growing Lettuce From Seed Require?

    When growing your lettuce indoors you don’t need any additional fertilizers for growing. However, when planting your young plants outside you should consider fertilizing them with an organic liquid fertilizer such as fish emulsion or seaweed extract plus bonemeal. When growing indoors and outdoors use only half the recommended dosage that is read on the package.

    Growing Lettuce From Seeds In Containers

    Growing lettuce from indoor starts requires very little time.  Plants will need a minimum of four hours of full sun per day outside and twelve hours per day inside.

    You will need containers that are around eight inches deep if you’re planting them outdoors or about five inches if growing them indoors. Black plastic pots are best as they absorb the maximum amount of light and heat (perfect for plants like lettuce and tomatoes).

    Plant your seeds about 1/8 inch deep into moist potting soil in either small individual pots or one large container that measures approximately eight inches deep. Keep the growing medium moist but not wet at all times to ensure your success with these fast-growing plants.

    Growing Lettuce From Seeds In Containers

    Conclusion On Growing Lettuce From Seed

    Growing lettuce indoors is nice if you don’t have the space outside or you can grow them all year round inside where it’s warm without worrying about cold temperatures (for growing plants only after they are mature enough).

    FAQ’s

    What temperature is fit for growing lettuce in the greenhouse?

    Growing lettuce in the greenhouse requires a growing temperature of +5°C (41°F) at night and a minimum growing temperature of +18°C (64.4°F) during the day.

    How do you grow lettuce seeds indoors?

    You should start growing lettuce indoors early in the growing season. Plant your growing seeds about 1/8 inch deep into moist potting soil in either small individual pots or one large container that measures approximately 5 inches deep. Keep the growing medium moist but not wet at all times to ensure your success with these fast-growing plants.

    How do you grow lettuce from seed outdoors?

    Growing lettuce outside is very easy, however, growing indoors is a little different from growing outdoors. Start by sowing the seeds indoors to transplant outdoors after the danger of frost has passed and the soil has warmed up.

    Plant your seedlings in a prepared growing garden bed, spacing them 12-24 inches apart (30.5-61cm). Ensure you water your lettuce once a day in the morning when there is no chance of rain in the forecast.

    How do you grow lettuce from seed?

    Growing lettuce from growing seed requires very little effort – you don’t need any special growing techniques! Ensure to sow your seeds at the right growing season and feed them with organic liquid fertilizer if growing them outdoors. Whether you are growing lettuce indoors or outdoors, on your window sill or in the greenhouse, timely sowing of seeds is critical.

  • All About LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    All About LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    An LED grow light distance chart is essential to help every gardener determine how much light the plants receive from grow lights.

    During the winter months, many LED grow lights enthusiasts use panels closer than their usual distances for an extended period to ensure successful growth indoors under limited natural sun exposure. Although this technique does work, LED plant lights should only be used closer for limited periods and not left on plants 24/7.

    A single LED lamp tends to dissipate its energy in all directions, thus creating a sphere of light around the actual lamp itself.  Therefore, if positioned too close (over 2-3″/5-7 cm)to the top of the plant canopy, these lamps can scorch or burn leaves and flowers.

    The LED grow light distance chart is the most useful resource for finding out how far your garden lighting should be from plants.

    The LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    This is determined by various factors that include measurements, dimensions, and other variables essential for determining how far you can place light.

    Another factor that determines LED grow light distance is the wattage of each lamp you are using.  Lamps with high wattage (100 watts +) will need to be placed further away than lower wattage lamps so as not to damage sensitive the garden foliage.

    The LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    How To Use The LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    This is a very simple exercise that will let you know how far away your plants are from your LED lamps so that they receive the optimum amount of light without being burnt by an excess of heat.

    Simply place one or two LED garden lamps on the floor at equal distances between each other, then look up at the top interior side of your canopy, which is where the grow light fixture should be hanging.

    Then measure the distance between LED lights and your plant, but make sure you use a tape measure as this will ensure consistency of the measurements taken.

    After which you should check against the LED grow light distance chart to determine whether or not you are within range of your garden lamps.

    Read about The Differences Between Greensand Vs Azomite

    The LED Grow Light Distance Calculator

    Found on most LED lighting manufacturers’ sites, they can tell you how far away from the plants your grow bulbs need to be so that they do not burn them. This is essential if you want to avoid scorching or burning of the foliage.

    To calculate how far your plants are from the LED bulb, follow these steps:

    • Measure the distance between LED grow light and plant so that you can use that as your X measurement in the grow light distance formula.
    • Next, measure the distance of the LED panel to the plant up top near the hood, which is where the garden lights should be placed according to this grow light chart.
    • Now take those amounts of inches (or cm’s) and divide them by two (in case there are two bulbs on your LED panel).

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    For example: If your LED lamp is 36 inches away from your plant..  divide 36 by 2; now you will have 18 inches. .  Then look at the LED grow light distance chart below to determine if it is too close or not.

    Don’t forget your LED grow light calculator to determine the plant distance!

    This LED grow light distance chart will ensure that your plants receive enough light, especially during winter months when there is limited sun exposure outdoors.

    Using LED lights for growing vegetation indoors does have its advantages, but only if they are positioned at the right distances away from plants to avoid scorching of the leaves and flowers.

    Check Out What Does An Artichoke Plant Look Like?

    The LED Grow Light Distance Chart Seedlings

    This is one of many LED grow light distance charts that focus on the lights for young seedlings.

    One of the LED grow light distance charts helps you identify how far your grow lights are from your plants.

    There are plenty of factors that go into the correct measurements needed for each plant in your indoor garden.  This makes it essential that you have an LED grow light distance chart seedlings at all times so that you can ensure optimum growth conditions leading up to outdoor harvesting.

    The ability to utilize the LED grow light distance chart seedlings is something many grow light enthusiasts will find extremely useful.

    Full-spectrum LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    The full spectrum LED grow light distance chart provides you with detailed information on these lights so that you can place them correctly in your garden.

    If your LED grow light is too far away, your plants will not receive enough light to photosynthesize, while a light placed too close can cause the burning of leaves.

    This is why it’s important to know how far away to keep LED lamps from the plants, while at the same time receiving just enough full-spectrum lights for proper growth conditions.

    There are plenty of factors that go into measuring LED plant lights correctly, with many gardening companies making LED grow light distance charts for this purpose.

    For example, make sure you are using a tape measure when taking measurements between LED lamps and your plants, as this will ensure consistency of LED grow measurements.

    Most LED grow light distance charts focus on the lamps for garden plants specifically.  However, some of these charts provide detailed information that can be useful to anyone wanting to know the distance of the correct light between their grow lights and the plants.

    Click here to learn about Grow Room Cost Calculator

    The 600W LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    This 600W LED grow light distance chart 600w is one of many LED grow light distance charts that can be found online.

    Many gardening enthusiasts find the 600W LED grow light distance chart useful for this reason, it can provide detailed information that has been collected over time by experienced LED gardeners.

    The 600W LED Grow Light Distance Chart

    While many LED light distance charts provide grow measurements in inches, the plant height can vary quite a bit when these lights are involved. For this reason, make sure you know the exact height of the LED lamps when using the 600w grow light distance chart led to getting accurate readings.

    Most gardeners will find that their plants need less than 18 inches in distance from LED lighting within the first few weeks following germination.  During flowering and vegetation periods, most indoor plants will require over 10 inches of space between an LED lamp and a plant for best results.

    Final Thoughts

    The LED grow light distance chart is a tool that every grow light enthusiast should have available to use even as gardening becomes more popular. Knowing the correct wattage and how far away you should place LED lamps from the plants will ensure optimum conditions for your garden.

    You can take measurements either with a tape measure or ruler when using an LED grow light distance chart.  This information will be useful if you’re planning on growing indoor plants.

    FAQ’s

    How far should plants be from LED grow lights?

    Most LED light distance charts will advise you to keep the lamps at least 2-4 inches away from plants, with 18-24 inches being optimal.

    How far away should LED grow lights be from seedlings?

    Most LED grow lights distance charts Recommend that the garden plants under 2-3 inches be kept at least 3-4 inches away from the growing lights.

    How far apart should grow lights be from each other?

    On average, most growers will want to leave about 6 inches between LED lights during vegetation periods (with the exception of flowering periods, which usually require more space).

  • Do You Know How To Cut Cilantro? – Learn With Our Step-by-step Guide

    Do You Know How To Cut Cilantro? – Learn With Our Step-by-step Guide

    Do you know how to cut cilantro or a guide on how to do it correctly will help you get some tips?

    Cilantro is not only used in cooking but it is also considered a herb. Cilantro or coriander leaves are popular in many parts of the world and most especially in Asia and Europe.

    Coriander is often seen in Asian dishes such as Vietnamese, Thai, Indian, and Chinese meals because this herb brings out the best flavors when combined with other ingredients.

    Since cilantro grows fast and can easily be propagated by breaking apart clumps into smaller sections that contain one stem and several leaves, it can be grown in a home garden.

    Both the leaves and stems of the cilantro plant are edible. The leaves are soft and tender, whereas the stems are fibrous and more flavorful.

    How To Cut Cilantro From Plants?

    If you want to know how to cut cilantro without killing the plant, here’s how:

    Step 1: Select a stem on the periphery of the clump and cut it off using sharp kitchen shears. Cutting at this stage will remove only the stem and some leaves but not all. This method helps you harvest cilantro several times.

    Step 2: After removing one stem, use your fingers to separate the remaining stems so you can find how to cut cilantro from a plant with ease. If there are no other stems visible anywhere in your garden, be sure to check again as they might still be hidden underneath larger leaves.

    How To Cut Cilantro From The Garden?

    Now that you know how to cut cilantro from plants, let’s learn how to correctly cut your cilantro leaves from the garden. Here is a step-by-step guide:

    Step 1: Hold a stem firmly in one hand and a clean pair of scissors in the other.

    Step 2: Cut cilantro stems right above a leaf node to retain most of your plants. A leaf node is where leaves are attached to the stem. Removing leaves below this area will seriously affect how to cut cilantro from the garden because it can disturb its growth pattern plus you’re left with shortened stems that won’t be as strong. 

    Step 3: Cut off your cilantro stems with a single clean cut to ensure you don’t damage the plant. Whatever you do, never cut your cilantro in a zigzag manner because this will tear the stem open and expose it to air which encourages its tissue to dry up.

    Follow this how-to cut cilantro guide correctly and your garden will always be full of culinary delights!

    Click here for A Guide To Growing Black Beauty Zucchini

    How To Cut Cilantro Leaves In The Kitchen

    Once you have harvested your cilantro, it’s time to learn how to cut cilantro leaves in the kitchen. Follow these steps to get it done easily:

    Step 1: Start by washing your hands. Always handle your food with clean hands.

    Step 2: Start pulling off the large outer leaves from the stems. Be sure to tear the leaves off instead of cutting with a knife.

    Step 3: Once you have enough leaves pulled off, wash them with clean water to get off dirt and insects if any.

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    Step 4. Roll these leaves upholding them between your first three fingers. Place them flat on your cutting board and hold them firmly so they won’t move. Hold your knife with a comfortable grip, keeping it in one position. Slowly slice the how-to-cut cilantro leaves length.

    Step 5: Cut these leaves into thin strips by holding your knife at an angle, about 30 degrees against the leafy pile. The thicker part of the cilantro leaves should be placed on top while the narrow end should be facing down towards your cutting board for stability.

    Now you know how to cut your cilantro and get them ready to garnish your food.

    Read more about How Does An Artichoke Grow?

    How Long Does Cilantro Last After Harvesting?

    Now that you know how to cut cilantro, you need to know that proper storage is important after harvesting.

    Store your cut cilantro in a glass of water by covering it with a plastic bag and placing it on your refrigerator’s top shelf. Remember that cilantro tends to wilt fast so it’s best you only harvest what you need currently. If you want them to stay longer, you can also freeze the cilantro leaves inside baggies for up to six months.

    If you’re cutting fresh cilantro leaves from your garden, don’t leave it out at room temperature even if it’s only one stem – never leave any food uncovered especially with how long cilantro lasts.

    How Long Does Cilantro Last After Harvesting

    Conclusion – How To Cut Cilantro

    After harvesting cilantro from your garden, always store them properly in the fridge. Cut the cilantro stems or leaves with a single clean cut to ensure you get perfect results every time.

    Cilantro is a companion to every chef, as it has both health and medicinal properties that most people use. It can be used fresh or dry.

    When used fresh, it has a very different taste than when it is dried. Fresh coriander leaves are an essential ingredient in many Asian dishes and American foods as well as Middle Eastern dishes.

    Coriander has many health benefits which include its ability in helping to control diabetes. It also helps ease muscle pain and detoxifies the body when used topically or orally. In addition, it also lowers blood cholesterol levels, boosts good bacteria in your gut, and helps with digestion.

    Happy gardening everyone!

    FAQ’s

    What part of cilantro do you cut?

    There are many parts of cilantro you can cut. Different parts of how to cut cilantro can be used for different recipes.
    Shallot – the white part that grows below the green leaves.

    Green onion – the longest green stalk minus roots.

    Root – it’s actually how to cut cilantro from the plant so you have to dig up the plant first before harvesting this part.

    Do you use the stems of cilantro?

    Yes, cilantro stems are edible too. However, how to cut cilantro stems is not always efficient because it takes a lot of time and effort before you can make all those leaves come out.